On December 30, 2020, The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) was notified of a single premise that had rabbit mortality and tested positive for Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus Type 2 (RHDV-2). The premise was cleaned and disinfected, and the investigation is ongoing. The source of the virus has not yet been determined and there are no other confirmed or suspect cases in Florida at this time.

Biosecurity is the key to prevention of RHDV:

• Keep a closed rabbitry.

• Exclude wild and feral rabbits from the rabbitry.

• Wash your hands between handling rabbits in different pens.

• Control flies and biting insects.

• Clean and disinfect equipment, tools, footwear, feed and water containers, cages.

Recommended disinfectants include those in the phenol class or 10 percent bleach. Clean

thoroughly with soap and water first and apply disinfectant for recommended contact

time. Rinse well and allow to dry before allowing animal contact.

• House rabbits indoors if possible.

• Do not share equipment with others who raise rabbits.

• Contact your veterinarian if sick or dead rabbits are observed and submit carcasses for

examination and prompt sampling.

• Do not transport rabbits into or out of RHDV quarantine areas.

• Separate new rabbits or those returning from shows for one month.